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Between managing your career, social life, family and the seemingly unrelenting general demands of daily life, it's clear many people out there don't consider getting off too high up on their list of priorities.
However, whether you're single and ready to mingle or happily loved-up in a long-term relationship, it seems like most of us are open to tips and tricks on how to boost your sex life if it's feeling a little, well, stagnant.
If that sounds like a bit of you, you may want to pay attention as several sexperts have now revealed the four major health benefits of a popular sex trend known as none other than 'shallowing' which is said to help couples out big time when it comes to the bedroom department.
What is 'shallowing'?
OK, I know what you're thinking: what on earth is 'shallowing'?
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Well, it's a form of sexual play that involves light stimulation around the entrance to the vagina.
No partner? No problem!
While this can be done with your partner gently entering the vagina with either the tip of their penis, finger, lips, tongue or even a sex toy - it can also be enjoyed solo-style.
If you hadn't already guessed it, it's called 'shallowing' as the penetrative touch is focused just inside the entrance of the vagina - so a shallow entrance.
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The act of 'shallowing' can, apparently, bring about some pretty incredible orgasms as the vaginal entrance is packed with specific nerve endings that can intensify female pleasure.
And it's not only about getting your rocks off as 'shallowing' brings with it a number of key health perks, according to Condoms.uk, a leading expert in sexual health and wellness products.
Prevention of STIs
The experts note that one of the primary benefits of any mindful sexual practice is the reduction of risk related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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"Condoms remain the gold standard in STI prevention, and the 'dip the tip' method, when combined with proper condom use, ensures extra precaution during the most sensitive initial moments of contact," they shared.
"It reinforces the importance of wearing a condom before any kind of penetration occurs, lowering the risk of exposure to infections through pre-ejaculate or micro-tears in the genital area."
Increased awareness of consent
In slowing things down when it comes to getting it on, both partners have more time to better communicate their boundaries, needs, and comfort levels.
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"This can foster deeper connection and ensure that every step of the experience is consensual," the experts explained, noting the importance of promoting clear and ongoing communication during intimacy, which is central to building healthier, safer relationships.
Improved sexual wellness for men
"The 'shallowing' method encourages men to be more mindful of their bodies and sensations," the experts continued, adding that slower initial penetration can reduce performance pressure and premature ejaculation - something which can improve sexual experiences for both partners.
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They also noted: "Men may find that taking a more deliberate approach to intimacy enhances their overall sexual satisfaction and confidence."
Enhanced comfort for partners
As we know, 'shallowing' offers a gentler start to penetrative sex which is great for anyone who experiences discomfort during penetration.
This can, in turn, make sexual encounters less painful and more enjoyable.
"We recommend pairing this practice with proper lubrication to ensure maximum comfort and to reduce the risk of irritation or injury," the experts advised.
So - how do you go about bringing up 'shallowing' to your partner?
Well, sex and relationship expert Tracey Cox advises you 'just make it part of everyday conversation'.
She explained: "If we were talking about anything else today, you'd say, 'I was listening to Woman's Hour and they were talking about this. What do you think?' Just have that conversation.
"Say, 'They did a really interesting study about how to make penetration more pleasurable for women and this particular technique really spoke to me, and I think I kind of do that already, but...' And then lead into the conversation from there."
Tracey continued: "Once you get passed those first few minutes, talking about sex is actually quite easy after that.
"Maybe it might be a bit uncomfortable with your partner who says, 'But hang on a minute, you've always been fine just with penetration without any extra stimulation?'.
"If you don't want to say, 'Well actually, I haven't been the whole of the time I've been with you' - just say, 'Well, I think my body's changing, I seem to need different things now'."
Communication is key, folks!
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Life, Advice, Health, Women's Health, Dating, Dating trends
Rhiannon Ingle